Build a Windows 10 PC for $400

Let's start with the brain of the PC -- the processor. I'm not interested in Intel vs. AMD fanboy wars here and just want a good quality part at a reasonable price. I've chosen here the AMD A8-7650K quad-core 3.3GHz part.

Since this is an APU I'm getting both the CPU and GPU in a single package, and getting both at a very low price.

$97

Since we've chosen a budget processor, it makes sense not to overspend on the motherboard too, and with that in mind I've gone for the GIGABYTE GA-F2A68HM-DS2H board. Not only is this board fully compatible with the APU, it is compatible with Socket FM2+ processors too, giving you room for future upgrades.

The board gives you UEFI support and USB 3.0 ports (two, along with another four USB 2.0 ports).

$50

Some basic RAM - CORSAIR Vengeance LP 4GB 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600

$24

It's strange to think that 1TB drives are pretty much the new sweet spot when buying storage. And since they come in well under $100, it makes sense to use one.

I've gone for the Western Digital WD Blue WD10EZEX. A no-nonsense 7,2000 RPM SATA drive with 64MB of cache.

$53

The PC now needs power, and this is the point to be careful, because not only can you overspend on PSUs, underspending means that you'll probably be replacing it within a year.

I prefer to stick with a good brand, and have gone for the Thermaltake TR2 TR-500, a 500W unit capable of powering everything in your PC with plenty of overhead for any upgrades.

$45

The case is where things get personal. Some people like fancy cases, while others prefer a minimal approach. Some like a big case, others want something small. Me, I'm happy as long as I can get my hands into it, and the sharp edges that invariably slice my flesh are kept to a minimum.

I'm going for a Rosewill FBM-01 case for this build. It's cheap and reasonably well made, and holds all the parts. It also has a couple of fans to keep the air moving.

$30

Last but not least, we come to the most expensive part of the build.

$100